High-sodium diet increases diabetes risk, potassium lowers risk

(01/21/2026)

A VA Million Veteran Program study found high dietary sodium intake was linked to a greater risk of diabetes, while potassium had the inverse effect. In a survey of nearly 200,000 Veterans, those whose diets included higher levels of sodium had an 11% higher rate of developing diabetes, while those whose diets contained the highest levels of potassium had a 13% lower rate of diabetes. Those with a combination of high sodium and low potassium also had a 21% higher risk of diabetes. The findings suggest consuming less sodium and more potassium could help lower diabetes risk. (Clinical Nutrition ESPEN, Jan. 3, 2026)